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Soft infrastructure at tourism sites: identifying key issues for Asian tourism from case studies.

Authors :
Pearce, Philip L.
Mao-Ying Wu
Source :
Tourism Recreation Research; Apr2015, Vol. 40 Issue 1, p120-132, 13p
Publication Year :
2015

Abstract

Building on the under-utilized power of case studies, this conceptual review considers information to enhance Asian tourism sites and attractions. Soft infrastructure, defined as the total effect of the hospitality, interpretive and person-to-person encounters, was considered at 16 strategically selected locations drawn from 7 Asian countries. An emic, tourist-oriented perspective was used to appraise the effects of the soft infrastructure. The researchers employed information from academic publications, attraction websites, tourists' reviews and personal visits to identify common cross-site issues. Seven key issues were identified: the importance of emotional labour/sincerity; the value of quality and professionalism; creating understanding and the role of language; the appeal of performance and spectacle; the usefulness of immersion and participation; the power of authentic local voices; and the management of crowding and close encounters. Site and tourist precinct attraction managers can evaluate these issues to better use their tourism assets and create enhanced on-site experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
02508281
Volume :
40
Issue :
1
Database :
Supplemental Index
Journal :
Tourism Recreation Research
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
102306626
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1080/02508281.2015.1010361